CNC Programmer

SABCA Group; Brussel Hoofdstad; Hybrid; EUR 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

SABCA Group in Brussels is seeking a CNC Programmer I to design, optimise and validate CNC programmes for machine tools in mechatronic and aerostructure parts, ensuring aerospace production standards and on-time delivery.

You will define machining methods, develop CAM programs (CATIA), select tools, simulate with Vericut, collaborate with workshops and design teams, and contribute to continuous improvement. Fluency in French or Dutch and strong GD&T knowledge are required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical, electromechanical, aeronautical engineering or related field.
• At least 3 years of experience in an industrial environment in machining production or CNC programming (turning, milling, ideally 5-axis).
• Experience in aerospace or precision mechanics is preferred; grinding/EDM/assembly is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Define or contribute to the machining method based on part definition.
• Develop CNC programmes using CAM software (CATIA) to ensure part conformity.
• Select appropriate tools and cutting conditions based on material and specs.
• Validate programmes via simulation (Vericut) and adjust as needed.
• Create and maintain setup sheets, tool lists, and instructions.
• Collaborate with workshops, planners and design teams to ensure execution.
• Contribute to estimating machining times and continuous improvement initiatives.

Skills

G‑code/M‑code programming

Reading technical drawings

GD&T knowledge

CAD/CAM programming

SAP familiarity

French or Dutch language

Machining processes (milling, turning,

Education

Bachelor's degree in mechanical, electromechanical, aeronautical engineering or related field

Tools

CATIA

Vericut

TDM

SAP (consultation)

Job description

Are you one of those people who look up to the sky every time a plane passes by? Space holds no more secrets for you than it does for science? Environmental and technological challenges are among those you wish to tackle?

Come join SABCA and play your own role in the fast-moving world of aerospace inside a company with more than 100 years of existence. We are experts in designing, manufacturing, maintaining, and upgrading large and complex elements for aircraft and space launchers.

In Brussels, we have our Structural and Mechatronics Engineering offices, where all our new programs begin and our workshops are equipped with modern machines that produce complex metallic assemblies for aircraft and space launchers as well as advanced Thrust Vectoring Systems for space launchers.

Mission

Your main mission asa CNC Programmer I is to design, optimise and validate CNC programmes for machine tools (such as machining centres, milling machines, lathes, etc.) for mechatronic and/or aerostructure parts. These must comply with aerospace production requirements, ensuring precision, quality, performance and on-time delivery.

Responsabilities

• Define or contribute to the machining method based on part definition (operations, machine/tooling/tool selection, etc.)
• Develop CNC programmes using CAM software (e.g. CATIA) in a methodical way to ensure part conformity and required quality level
• Select appropriate tools and cutting conditions based on the material and customer specifications
• Provide inputs and collaborate closely with tooling designers, considering manufacturing constraints
• Validate programmes via simulation (e.g. Vericut or machine-specific software) and make necessary adjustments
• Create and maintain setup sheets, work instructions, sketches, tool lists, etc.
• Create new tools in the database
• Collaborate with workshops and planning to ensure proper execution of programmes
• Modify processes based on production feedback, quality control reports and SPC data
• Collaborate with other departments (design office, quality, purchasing)
• Contribute to estimating recurring and non-recurring machining times for new parts
• Participate in continuous improvement: cycle time reduction, process optimisation
• Contribute to process standardisation and non-conformity reporting
• Train and assist operators on programmes, setups and best practices
• Use SAP to extract production tracking and routing information

You are also responsible for :

• Ensuring compliance with the EN9100 quality standard and the ISO 14001 environmental standard
• Performing rigorous self-checks to guarantee the quality and conformity of the work
• Transferring your skills and knowledge to new team members to foster a culture of continuous learning and mutual support
• Managing confidential data and situations
• Complying with safety, health, and environmental rules
• Reporting risks and applying procedures to prevent incidents

Education / Experience:

• Education: You hold a Bachelor's degree in mechanical, electromechanical, aeronautical engineering or a related field.
• Desired experience: You have at least 3 years of experience in an industrial environment in machining production or CNC programming (turning, milling, ideally 5-axis), preferably in aerospace or precision mechanics. Experience in grinding, EDM or assembly is a plus.

Skills:

• Soft Skills:

You are rigorous, methodical and analytical

You have attention to detail, good interpersonal skills and the ability to work in a team and advise various stakeholders (designers, planners, workshops)

• Technical:

Proficient in G-code/M-code programming (multi-axis)

Ability to read and interpret technical drawings

Comfortable reading 2D/3D plans and mechanical diagrams

Good understanding of GD&T and dimensional/geometrical tolerances

Knowledge of materials (aluminium, stainless steel, titanium, etc.)

Knowledge of cutting tools and their usage conditions

Mastery of various machining processes (milling, turning, drilling, grinding, EDM, etc.)

• Languages: Fluent in French or Dutch (spoken & written) and able to understand technical English (documentation and professional communication).

Proficient in one or more CAD/CAM programming software (CATIA is a plus)

Familiar with machining simulation software (e.g. Vericut is a plus)

Knowledge of cutting tool management software is a plus (e.g. TDM)

Comfortable with office tools (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Visio)

Familiarity with SAP (consultation) is a plus

So, What's in it for you?

Experience! Gain new experience to thanks to the full range of services we offer to the civil, space and military aviation markets. Our activities include designing, manufacturing, maintaining, and upgrading large and complex elements for aircraft and space launchers for customers and partners belonging to the elite of the aerospace industry.

Excitement! Work in an exciting environment where long-standing expertise and research and technological development feed off each other.

Sabca collaborators have their passion and their know-how as common denominator.

Teamwork, reliability and innovation are part of the culture we value and that lead us to success.

Challenges! Help Europe access to space by designing and manufacturing rocket structures.

Be part of the pioneers in developing advanced air mobility solutions inside our division dedicated to drones. Use your knowledge to take people around the world on board low-carbon aircraft.

Contribute to the environmental and technological challenges of the century. Play your own role in the fast-moving world of aerospace.

Be ready for take-off!

"This position is subject to specific regulatory requirements (export control and/or security clearance). Employment, as well as access to the relevant information and systems, is conditional upon obtaining and maintaining the required authorizations, in accordance with applicable regulations. By submitting your application, you agree to cooperate in good faith and to provide all necessary, complete and accurate information in this regard."